Master IELTS Speaking: Guide to Describing Your Favorite Leisure Activity

Similar to describe a memorable experience you had in nature, discussing leisure activities is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests that allows candidates to demonstrate their English proficiency through personal experiences.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions

Common questions about leisure activities include:

  • What do you like to do in your free time?
  • How often do you engage in this activity?
  • When did you start doing this activity?
  • Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m particularly passionate about photography. I tend to spend my weekends capturing urban landscapes and street scenes. I took up this hobby about five years ago when I got my hands on my first DSLR camera. What draws me to photography is the ability to freeze moments in time and tell stories through images.”

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a leisure activity you enjoy
You should say:

  • What the activity is
  • When you started doing it
  • Who you do it with
  • And explain why you enjoy it

Person practicing photography as leisure activityPerson practicing photography as leisure activity

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about photography, which has become an integral part of my life. I first developed an interest in photography during my university years when I describe a place in your city where people gather to relax and wanted to capture those moments.

What particularly fascinates me about photography is its ability to tell compelling stories through visual narratives. I usually go on photo walks with a local photography club, where we bounce ideas off each other and share technical expertise.

Photography has evolved from just a hobby to describe an expensive activity that you enjoy occasionally because of the equipment involved. However, the satisfaction of capturing perfect moments makes it worthwhile.”

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I want to talk about photography. I started it three years ago when I bought my first camera. I usually take photos with my friends on weekends. I like it because it helps me remember special moments and it’s fun to learn new techniques.”

Part 3: Discussion Questions

Q: How have leisure activities changed in recent years?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“There has been a significant shift in how people spend their leisure time. The digital revolution has transformed traditional activities, with many people now how did you spend your last weekend ielts engaging in online entertainment. However, I’ve observed a growing trend towards activities that promote mindfulness and well-being, such as yoga and nature photography.”

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

  • Integral part of (phrase) – essential or fundamental component
  • Take up (phrasal verb) – to begin a hobby or activity
  • Compelling (adj.) /kəmˈpelɪŋ/ – captivating or convincing
  • Bounce ideas off (idiom) – to discuss ideas with someone
  • Make it worthwhile (phrase) – to make something valuable or rewarding

Remember to practice these expressions naturally and incorporate them into your responses to achieve higher band scores.